Preparing for Your First Remote Job

Learn how to work at the speed of life in a remote environment.

Getting ready for your first remote role can be both exciting and overwhelming. The transition from a traditional job to a remote role is a significant shift both physically and mentally. Learning how to properly adjust to this new lifestyle and working environment can be a bit challenging at first. However, absorbing a few simple tips and tricks before getting started will help you flourish at a quicker pace.

Mastering the Collaboration Tools

Most remote organizations use a multitude of tech stacks to communicate, collaborate, create, organize, store information, etc. New hires are often given access to a number of platforms to become proficient in. Having a well-rounded understanding of the program’s functions and features will help equip you with the knowledge you need to work faster.

Learning to Communicate

One of the hardest transitions moving into the remote world can be learning how to communicate with colleagues. Oftentimes remote companies will provide a framework for communication standards which can take some getting used to. The best practice for getting started in a world of message threads on different platforms is to keep your information organized, read the materials you are cc’d on, and always provide visibility to co-workers when possible. Likewise, develop an understanding of when to discuss things in person – over a meeting, sending a video message, or utilizing a virtual office for touchpoints. 

Get Involved 

Remote working is a tech-forward and fast-paced environment. Most workers create their own schedules and move at varying speeds. Sometimes it can be hard to get to know the people you work with on a daily basis because of the lack of face-to-face interaction. Take the time to get to know your coworkers by attending the company’s online get-togethers or work retreats. Extend an invitation for a Zoom lunch or take five minutes post-meeting to discuss how your days are. This will help you integrate on a more personal level with your colleagues and become more comfortable in this new working environment. 

Choosing Your Workspace

Ideally, it is important to have a quiet working environment with little to no distractions. The home office is an option many people choose; But, home offices can come with dogs, kids, noisy neighbors, etc. While it is tolerated within the remote community to have some disturbances during meetings and throughout the day, this ultimately can impact productivity. Likewise, increasing the number of hours needed to get anything from simple to big tasks done. 

The coffee shop is another workspace option that can be convenient when traveling, needing a change of scenery, or just looking for a morning pick-me-up. Pros that come with this option are unlimited caffeine, new surroundings, and a vibrant atmosphere. Depending on the coffee shop, the downsides often include noise, slow wifi, and small spaces to set up for the day’s work. 

The coworking space is also a popular option remote workers tend to flock to. Essentially, coworking spaces offer an office-like environment that supports solo or team working. These infrastructures include workstations typically with amenities and features. However, this option can become expensive over time. 

VEL is a dynamic and adaptable space for professionals needing a quiet place to work. Our premium work cafe includes the comforts of a home office, the amenities of a coworking space, and a menu with food and beverage options that enhance performance. Our performance pricing model allows for an experience that is affordable for remote workers, freelancers, and people on the go. 

VEL offers private and soundproof spaces that each have their own set of productivity-inducing features. Additionally, we offer collaboration spaces for gathering teams. Last but not least, our specialty beverages include award-winning coffee beans infused with performance blends to help our customers work at twice the speed.